World Cancer Day, observed annually on February 4, aims to raise awareness and educate about the prevention, early detection, and treatment of cancer. In 2025, the event will focus on the theme "United by Unique," highlighting the importance of personalized and people-centred care. This initiative, led by the Union for International Cancer Control, strives to reduce the global cancer burden and ensure that it remains a top global health priority. With its origins in the Paris Charter for the New Millennium, World Cancer Day continues to bring together individuals and organizations from around the world to combat this deadly disease.
World Cancer Day: A Global Movement for Cancer Prevention and Care
World Cancer Day, observed annually on February 4, serves as a global rallying point for raising awareness, promoting education, and advocating for the prevention and control of cancer.
Background:
The genesis of World Cancer Day can be traced back to the Paris Charter for the New Millennium, adopted at the World Summit Against Cancer in 2000. This charter laid the foundation for a comprehensive and multi-sectoral approach to cancer prevention and control. Subsequently, World Cancer Day was first observed in 2006, initiated by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC).
Mission and Objectives:
World Cancer Day aims to achieve the following objectives:
Each year, the UICC selects a specific theme for World Cancer Day. The theme for 2025 is "United by Unique," emphasizing the importance of personalized and people-centered cancer care.
Global Impact:
World Cancer Day is a global phenomenon that has gained widespread recognition and support. It is observed in over 100 countries and regions, involving governments, healthcare professionals, non-profit organizations, and individuals. Through various events and activities, the day serves as a platform to:
Top 5 FAQs and Answers:
1. What is the most common type of cancer globally? Answer: Lung cancer
2. What are the key risk factors for cancer? Answer: Tobacco use, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain infections
3. What are the early warning signs of cancer? Answer: Unexplained lumps or bumps, changes in skin texture, persistent pain, unexplained bleeding or discharge, and changes in bowel or bladder function
4. How can I prevent cancer? Answer: Adopt a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and limited alcohol and tobacco use; get vaccinated against preventable infections; and undergo regular cancer screenings
5. What is the future of cancer treatment? Answer: Personalized medicine, immunotherapy, and advanced screening technologies hold promising potential for improving cancer outcomes and reducing the global burden of the disease.
US President Donald Trump surprised many by suggesting that the United States should "take over" Gaza and redevelop it into a thriving and luxurious area, dubbing it "the Riviera of the Middle East." This proposal raised questions and potential backlash, as many Middle Eastern countries have previously rejected the idea of resettling Palestinians outside of Gaza. As Trump's close ally, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the plan "worth paying attention to," adding to the controversy surrounding the statement. Meanwhile, Trump also addressed the issue of Iran's nuclear ambitions, stating that it would be "unfortunate" if the country thought it could develop atomic bombs.
The US President's decision to freeze funds for USAID has caused the organization to halt its work in India. Elon Musk, a close aide of Trump, has called USAID a "criminal organization" and the president himself has referred to the organization as a group of "radical left lunatics." As a result, all projects being implemented with USAID's support in India have been suspended until further notice. This move has raised concerns about the implications on healthcare and other partnerships between the two countries.
The ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Uttar Pradesh witnessed its third grand Amrit Snan on the auspicious occasion of Basant Panchami, attracting devotees from all over the world. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has been personally monitoring the situation since 3.30 am and officials have confirmed that the sacred dip is going on smoothly. The first of the akharas, including the ash-smeared Nagas, completed their bath by 6 am, with the Juna Akhara's Nagas being a major highlight of the event. To add to the spiritual atmosphere, rose petals were showered in the area using a helicopter.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah joined millions of pilgrims at the Mahakumbh mela in Prayagraj, where over 13.21 crore people have already taken a dip in the holy waters. Accompanied by his family and top seers, Shah performed various rituals including the 'jal aachman' and 'aarti' at the Triveni Sangam. His visit was marked by unprecedented security measures as the area was made a no-vehicle zone. Shah expressed his eagerness to take part in this symbol of harmony and unity and receive the blessings of saints.
A passenger plane and a US Army helicopter collided in mid-air near Washington DC's Ronald Reagan airport, resulting in the feared death of 67 individuals. The cause of the crash is currently unknown and investigations are ongoing. Data shows that the helicopter was flying above the allowed altitude before the collision, and air traffic recordings indicate that the controller attempted to warn the pilot. Authorities have recovered the flight data recorders and continue to search for bodies in the Potomac River.
As the names of the victims begin to emerge, the black boxes from the military helicopter and American Airlines passenger jet have been recovered and are being analyzed in a laboratory. The focus is now on understanding how the two aircrafts collided during a training exercise, leading to the death of 67 individuals. In the ongoing investigation, divers are set to search for more wreckage and aid in the recovery efforts.
In a fiery post on his new social media platform, Donald Trump has warned BRICS countries against any attempts to move away from the US dollar in global trade. The former US President has threatened to impose 100% tariffs on these countries and cut off their access to the US market if they continue with plans to create an alternative currency. Trump's statements highlight the ongoing struggle between the US and emerging economies like India, China and Brazil, who seek to reduce their dependence on the US dollar and increase financial integration among BRICS nations.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to the families of the victims of a fatal midair collision between a plane and helicopter in Washington DC. He also extended his solidarity with the people of the United States during this tragedy. US President Donald Trump also addressed the incident, stating that it was a real tragedy and the search and rescue effort has now shifted to a recovery mission with no survivors.
Despite numerous efforts to counter the practice of chhaupadi, which banishes menstruating females into isolated sheds, the deep-rooted fear of repercussions from their clan deity continue to perpetuate the harmful tradition in Western Nepal. Activists and locals share stories of faith in the deity and consequences of breaking chhau rules, leading to the suppression of chhaupadi-related deaths. The superstitious belief that menstruating females are impure extends to the use of family toilets, forcing women to search for alternative options in the jungle. While some deaths may be reported, many more are hidden due to the fear of speaking against the chhaupadi culture.